Ferry Port
Caen/St Malo
800-850 km, 8-9 hours
Airport
Toulouse-Blagnac
From Calais
10-11 hours
Est. Tolls
£70-£85
About Toulouse
The "Pink City" (named for its distinctive terracotta buildings) is France's aerospace capital and a vibrant university town in the southwest. Toulouse offers a relaxed southern French lifestyle, excellent Gascon cuisine, and easy access to the Pyrenees and Languedoc wine regions. It's less touristy than Paris or the Riviera but equally charming.
Best for
Tips for Getting to Toulouse
Toulouse is well-served by flights from the UK — check Ryanair and easyJet routes from regional airports.
If driving, western ferry routes (Portsmouth-Caen or Portsmouth-St Malo) cut several hours off the French drive.
The A62 autoroute from Bordeaux to Toulouse is relatively flat and easy driving.
Toulouse is a gateway to the Pyrenees, Carcassonne, and the Canal du Midi — perfect for a longer road trip.
Visit the Airbus factory tour and Cité de l'Espace if you're interested in aerospace engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get to Toulouse from the UK?
Budget airlines offer direct flights to Toulouse from London, Manchester, Bristol, and other UK cities. If driving, Portsmouth-Caen or Portsmouth-St Malo ferries are better than going via Calais.
How long does it take to drive to Toulouse from the UK?
From Calais: 10-11 hours. From Caen or St Malo ferry ports: 8-9 hours. Western ferry routes save significant driving time for southwest France destinations.
Is Toulouse a good base for the Pyrenees?
Yes. Toulouse is around 1.5-2 hours from the Pyrenees foothills and makes an excellent base for exploring the mountains, Cathar castles, and southwestern France.
Calculate Your Trip to Toulouse
Get exact costs for tunnel, ferry, and fly + hire options for your specific dates.
Compare Options to Toulouse